Duke's Biography
Duke Ellington was born as Edward Kennedy Ellington, in Washington, D.C.
on April 24, 1899.
Family life: Ellington grew up in a stable, affectionate family. His father, who was a butler, provided a comfortable home life and steered his son toward a career as an artist. At seven, Ellington began to study piano. He continued with musical studies at school and with a private teacher, Henry Grant.
Career: His first big attempt at music failed miserably. His ‘sidemen’ Otto "Toby" Hardwicke (bass and sax) and Sonny Greer (drums), had joined Wilbur Sweatman's band, but after a few months, discouraged, they gave up.
A few years later, Sweatman’s band was hired downtown by The Hollywood. Ellington took over as leader. The small group played at the club between 1923 and 1927 and began to increase in size. Additions included two trumpets, a trombone, a baritone sax, a clarinet, and a bass.